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Welcome to Yarmouth
As your ship cruises to the southwestern tip of Nova Scotia, toward the gorgeous coastline of Yarmouth and Acadian Shore, you’ll understand why Leif Erikson may have decided to explore this part of the world–as some say he did–way back in the year 1000.
When you step off the ship, you’ll want to waste no time, as there’s so much to see and do in this seaside town!
The charming architecture in the Town of Yarmouth is sure to steal your attention. Our Heritage district contains many stately unique houses and churches, all built by affluent merchants, sea captains and ship owners from days gone by. Most of the buildings that were erected here during the height of the shipbuilding era still remain in their grand state.
When you’ve worked up an appetite visit our local restaurants and cafés where you can taste some of the freshest seafood in the world. If sampling local craft beers, wines, and delicacies is a passion of yours, whet your appetite with a guided foodie tour of the area!
Come immerse yourself in Acadian culture, learn about the age-old fishing industry, visit the second most photographed Lighthouse in Nova Scotia and even climb the 77 steps to the top. Take a tour exploring the Tusket Islands. Be sure to chat with some of the locals and experience a “tyme” (and learn what that is!). And, if the stars align and you’re in the area after night falls, cast your eyes to the sky. The region is so perfectly suited to view the night sky it's been designated as a Starlight Tourist Destination by the International Starlight Foundation. There’s a bit of magic in Yarmouth and Acadian Shores.
Contact
Neil MacKenzie
CEO
Yarmouth and Acadian Shores Tourism Association
Phone: (902) 400-0323
Email: nmackenzie@yasta.ca
Port Specifications
Lobster Rock Marine Terminal
Berthage: 152.4 metres (500 feet)
Depth: 5.8 metres (19 feet)
Tidal range: 3.73 metres to 4.57 metres
Old Public Wharf
Berthage: 121 metres (397 feet)
Depth: 5.1 metres (17 feet)
Tidal range: 3.73 metres to 4.57 metres
Available Services
- Year-round Canada Border Services
- Certified Cruise Ship Operations Port (CSO)
- Bulk Water
- Lighting
- Bunkering (must to be arranged with local fuel trucking company)
- Security
- Medical / Regional Hospital / Police
- Recycling
- Pilotage Services (available upon request)
Berth Availability
The partners in the Atlantic Canada Cruise Association are ready to welcome your ships to our harbours. For more information and to secure a berth please contact Greg Shay, Port of Yarmouth.
Things to do
Cape Forchu Lighthouse
Towering over the jagged coastline at the edge of Yarmouth is the Cape Forchu Lighthouse. Enjoy a guided tour with the lighthouse keeper, visit the museum, have a picnic lunch while taking in the scenery, or take a walk on the surrounding hiking trails. Climb the seventy-seven steps inside the lighthouse to the lantern room where you will be treated to the breathtaking views of the surrounding sea and landscapes. You’ll quickly see why this site has been declared Canada’s Best Public Space.
Yarmouth Walking Tours
Every town has its secrets… its stories. Set aside some time for a fully guided 75-minute tour to get a wonderful glimpse into Yarmouth’s past. You’ll hang on to every word of the history, folklore, and legends of this seafaring town. The stories will linger in your mind’s eye long after you leave the shores of Nova Scotia.
Le Village Historique Acadian de la Nouvelle-Écosse
Take a stroll back through time—through the early 1900s to be exact—and see firsthand how the Acadians of the area lived. The Historical Acadian Village of Nova Scotia is set on a 17-acre site that overlooks the visually stunning Pubnico Harbour. Watch re-enactments and demonstrations of how Acadians in this area worked and lived over a hundred years ago. Discover their language and become immersed in a special, rich culture.
Tusket Island Tours
Learn how to haul a real lobster trap, visit private floating docks, fishing shanty workshops and sit down to a traditional seafood chowder made from a recipe passed down through generations. Enjoy fabulous live entertainment on your sail back to the Wedgeport dock.
The Waterfront
Explore the beautiful Yarmouth waterfront, with many local restaurants and cafés, galleries and shops along the way. Take in the beautiful views, especially as night falls.
Museums & Historical Places
Learn more of where the land meets the sea, and where our rich, cultural history is far more than words on paper. Dive into the cultural history exhibits at the Yarmouth County Museum. Climb the wooden staircase to the private quarters at the Pelton-Fuller House, or walk among vintage fire trucks at the Yarmouth Firefighter’s Museum. Explore an old 1950s’ Acadian home at Le Musée des Acadiens des Pubnicos, or step into one of Canada’s oldest prison cells at the Argyle Courthouse & Gaol. If you prefer our seaside history, take a stroll through the recreated fishing shanties of the 1900s at W. Sweeney’s Museum, or sit in the head office at Killam’s Shipping Office.
Golfing
Golfers of all levels can tee off on one of our spectacular 18-hole golf courses. Breathe and take in Yarmouth Links Golf Course’s stunning views of the Yarmouth Harbour, overlooking the untouched landscapes leading to the Cape Forchu Lighthouse. The West Pubnico Golf Course, nestled in lush forests, has refined water features throughout, and hosts renown professional and junior golf development programs. Both courses are a great way to meet locals, engage with authentic Acadian languages, and leave lasting impressions long after you’ve left the green.
SUP with East Coast Paddle Co.
Take a paddle on the wild side with a guided Stand-up Paddle Boarding experience in Town of Yarmouth’s Lake Milo. Guided by East Coast Paddle Company, this experience will allow you to slow down, and give you a new perspective on nature. Enjoy this tour, suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Craft Beer & Spirits
Taste all the unique flavours our craft beer and spirit distilleries have to offer. Take a seat outside an enjoy a pint of craft beer at Rudder’s Seafood Restaurant and Brewpub, Heritage Brewing Co., or Tusket Falls Brewing. If you’re looking for craft spirits, Boatskeg Distillery Co. in West Pubnico is an absolute ‘Bootleg’ of flavour and fun.
Trails & Landmarks
Stretch and steady your sea legs on one of our many trails along the coast. Listen to crashing waves along the Leif Erikson Trail with family and friends, or venture out to the West Pubnico peninsula to admire the technology of the gentle, green and giant windmills towering over the coast at the West Pubnico Windfarm & Trail.